8 | Cooper Developments T T Kim Newth A family passion for development REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Cooper Developments embodies a family passion for development in Canterbury that spans three generations and a multitude of uplifting projects. The family business started with Merv Cooper, a builder and developer, whose work so inspired his daughter Lilly that she decided to get involved too. “While Papa wasn’t convinced Lilly could handle a tool belt, he knew she’d have a flair for property development; once she started, she hasn’t stopped,” says Lilly’s daughter, Caroline Cooper-Dixon. Caroline later joined Cooper Developments herself to help develop one of Christchurch’s biggest post-quake developments, The Colombo, as an uplifting retail and entertainment destination. Developed with world-class vision, this project provided a much-needed boost for Ōtautahi and is thriving today as a pre-eminent hub of fashion, beauty, home, lifestyle boutiques and independent cinema. The landmark development remains close to Caroline’s heart, one that she is justifiably very proud of, too. “The Colombo, for me, felt like a child in the beginning, with it being my first project. I would work long hours on the development, sometimes even throwing fashion shows! “I wanted to ensure I was providing Christchurch with something unique and enjoyable. The Colombo became a hub for many Cantabrians at a time when it felt like a lot was taken away from our community. “Not only did I learn a lot about the business, but I learnt how to collaborate with the locals and the community.” Between them, Lilly and Caroline have many decades of experience in commercial and retail property development. Together, they are a powerhouse development team, who work well together, sharing tasks to achieve optimal results. Cooper Developments also works closely with construction partner Armitage Williams Construction and trusted contractors. Armitage Williams is a leader in commercial construction in the Canterbury market. Caroline says she enjoys working alongside their project manager. “Since part of the construction phase is making decisions each day that can impact the development in all sorts of ways, having someone skilled and that you enjoy working with each day makes the project more enjoyable. The company also shares similar values to us and you can feel that with Armitage Williams.” In 2020, Cooper Developments was selected by Selwyn District Council to bring the Rolleston Fields development to life. This exceptionally significant development is transforming the heart of Rolleston. “It is an incredible privilege to work with the people of Rolleston to build and shape a town centre that fits their needs. “I feel proud that Cooper Developments have added to the huge potential of Selwyn District, which has been made possible by the council, which is incredibly progressive and caring towards their community.” It is easy to see the synergies between The Colombo and Rolleston Fields developments, both being developed with care to serve and inspire local business and communities for decades to come. Creating developments that can make a positive impact is a big motivator for both Caroline and Lilly. “In our industry, the market is always moving, so it means a lot to know we’ve been trusted with such important projects that will be having major impacts on a community in the years to come. “At Cooper Developments our goal is to add value, build good assets and provide space for businesses to thrive.” Enticing new openings at Rolleston Fields over the past year include luxurious O-Studio that’s located in the Health and Wellness Corner and offers a range of calming yoga, pilates and soothing sauna experiences, plus new eateries Little Vietnam and Sushi Shop Rolleston. Bargain Chemist and Pet Stock are now open, too. Caroline says there are more projects on the horizon. “We’ve had a lot of interest from some strong national brands that want their business in Rolleston. “I’m really excited that the community will soon have access to a wider range of hospitality, specialty retail, office and entertainment in this town of the future.”
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